In case you missed it see what’s in this section
Lo Lounge Cardiff Bay – Stylish Cocktails With Waterfront Views
Why You’ll Love It: Set on the picturesque waterfront, Lo Lounge Cardiff Bay is a vibrant, open-air social venue that’s become a go-to for day-to-night experiences in the Bay. With its laid-back beach club vibes, heated pergolas, waterfront views, and a full calendar of events—from live DJs and themed nights to bottomless brunches and sundown socials—Lo Lounge offers the perfect mix of chill and energy.
Whether you're after cocktails by the water, a bite to eat with friends, or a lively night out in Cardiff Bay, Lo Lounge delivers a unique, stylish atmosphere all year round.
The Experience: Start your evening with dinner at one of Cardiff Bay’s top restaurants—Côte Brasserie for waterside French cuisine, or The Dock for something more casual with a great drinks menu. Once you’ve eaten, take a sunset stroll along the Cardiff Bay Barrage or enjoy a scenic boat ride if the weather’s on your side—both are perfect pre-night-out activities to soak in the views and vibes.
As the evening sets in, make your way to Lo Lounge. Arrive just in time for golden hour, grab a spot under the heated pergolas or by the water, and ease into the night with one of their signature passionfruit martinis or a classic Mojito. They also offer sharer cocktails and themed specials—perfect for groups looking to get the party started.
Price Range: Cocktails vary from £8-10. Expect themed sharer cocktails and specials, which may cost a bit extra.
Dress Code: Smart casual is required for evening events
The Dock – Casual Drinks & Bay Views in Cardiff Bay
Why You’ll Love It: Nestled right on the vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront, The Dock offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for a casual night out or weekend celebrations. With its spacious outdoor seating overlooking the water, craft beers on tap, creative cocktails, and a menu packed with hearty pub classics and street food favourites, The Dock is a fantastic spot to unwind with friends. Whether you're after a chilled drink by the water or a buzzing venue to kick off your night, The Dock balances laid-back vibes with great food and drinks all year round.
The Experience: Kick off your evening at one of Cardiff Bay’s great nearby restaurants—try Tides for seafood or Pilot Bar & Kitchen for seasonal dishes—then take a scenic stroll along the Bay or visit the iconic Wales Millennium Centre for a show if you’re feeling cultural. When you’re ready to settle in, head to The Dock for waterfront drinks and bites. Start with one of their signature craft ales or a refreshing G&T before moving on to their popular sharing platters to fuel the night.
After a great session at The Dock, if you want to keep the party going, nearby bars like Lo Lounge or The Old Custom House are just a short walk away, offering lively music and cocktails late into the night.
Price Range: Expect drinks priced around £4–£6 for beers and wines, with cocktails generally between £7–£9. Sharing boards and street food options range from £6–£12, making it affordable for groups or casual diners.
Dress Code: Casual and comfortable attire works perfectly here. No strict dress code, but smart casual is always a safe bet if you’re heading out later.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay – Stylish Cocktails and Live Music by the Bay
Why You’ll Love It: Set in the heart of Mermaid Quay, The Botanist Cardiff Bay blends lush botanical décor with a vibrant social scene. With sweeping bay views, two floors of seating (indoor and terrace), live music Fridays & Saturdays, monthly Botanist Bingo, bottomless brunches, and a menu featuring show-stopping Hanging Kebabs™ and seasonal small plates, this venue offers an unforgettable waterfront experience.
The Experience: Your evening might begin with dinner at a nearby spot like Côte Brasserie or Tides, followed by a sunset stroll along the Bay. Arrive at The Botanist around 8 pm to enjoy the live music vibe. Grab a botanical cocktail—think Cherry Blossom Martini or Gin Punch—then dive into a Hanging Kebab or a trio of small plates (from £6.75 each) .
If you're in the mood for something extra, book a session for botanical cocktail masterclasses, perfect for groups. Afterward, move the night along to spots like Lo Lounge or Dead Canary for late-night drinks and dancing.
Price Range: Cocktails typically range from £8–£10; enjoy happy hour Mon–Fri (4–7 pm): 2 classics for £16.95. Small plates start at £6.75; mains from around £14.50; desserts from £5.95. Bottomless brunch is about £35 per person for 90 minutes of drinks and a brunch meal
Dress Code: Smart casual - botanical chic.
Las Iguanas Cardiff Bay – Latin Flavours & Lively Vibes at Mermaid Quay
Why You’ll Love It: Nestled on Mermaid Quay, Las Iguanas brings the lively spirit of Latin America to Cardiff Bay. With a menu full of vibrant Mexican and South American dishes, tapas to share, and legendary cocktails (plus 2-for-1 offers daily), it’s a social hotspot perfect for any night out. The colourful décor, waterfront views, and spacious seating—indoors and alfresco—make it ideal for big groups, brunch fans, and sunset cocktail seekers alike .
The Experience: Break the evening in style with dinner next door at Tides or The Dock, then stroll the waterfront before settling in at Las Iguanas. Start with plates of padrón peppers, calamares, or chicken tinga quesadillas. When the evening vibes kick in, enjoy their bottomless brunch or lively 2-for-1 cocktail deal—perfect way to welcome the night. Afterward, venture to nearby spots like The Botanist or Lo Lounge for live music and a more upbeat scene.
Price Range: Main dishes range from £11–£15; tapas and sides cost £5–£10. Meal deals (main + side + drink) start at £17 per person. Cocktails are around £7–£8, with generous 2-for-1 offers all day, every day (excluding Fri/Sat evenings). Bottomless brunch is also available—just check the website for details.
Dress Code: No formal attire required—smart casual is ideal. It fits both daytime brunch and multi-stop nights out.
Everything You Need to Know for Your Night Out in Cardiff Bay
Public Transport Options: Cardiff Bus’ Baycar (Service 6) is the fastest, running every 12 mins (Mon–Fri) or 15–20 mins evenings & weekends, linking city centre and the Bay directly. Other bus routes: 1, 2, 5, and 8 also serve Mermaid Quay and Millennium Centre stops
Taxi Options: Capital Cabs, Bay Cars, Premier Taxis and Dragon Taxis.
Driving & Parking:
- Q-Park Pierhead Street: Large multi-storey (1,239 spaces, 74 disabled bays), open 24/7 and known for being safe at night if you're leaving your car.
- Mermaid Quay Car Park (380 spaces, ANPR ticketless)—adds convenience but can be slower to exit.
- Havannah Street pay & display and JustPark on-street bays offer cheaper, pre-bookable overnight spots (from ~£0.90/hr)
- On-street city centre parking is often free after 6–8 pm, depending on the zone